Real Madrid legend Claude Makelele backs Victor Osimhen as Chelsea ideal striker

By Wale Mustapha

Real Madrid and France football icon Claude Makelele has urged Chelsea to make a move for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, calling him the best option to solve the club’s ongoing goal-scoring issues.

Chelsea’s search for a reliable striker has intensified following another disappointing season.

The Blues have struggled to find consistent form in front of goal, and Senegalese forward Nicolas Jackson, signed from Villarreal, has failed to deliver as expected. Over the past two seasons, Jackson has scored just 26 goals in 68 appearances across all competitions, a stat far below Chelsea’s high standards.

Makelele, who spent five successful years at Stamford Bridge, believes Osimhen is the perfect solution to Chelsea’s striker dilemma. The former Chelsea midfielder highlighted the Nigerian’s lethal finishing ability and his presence in the box as crucial qualities for the Blues’ style of play.

“He (Osimhen) is a finisher,” Makelele told talkSPORT. “For the way Chelsea plays, they need this kind of striker who can make a real impact in the box. I think he will be the best option for Chelsea.”

Currently playing for Turkish Süper Lig champions Galatasaray, Osimhen has been in sensational form.

The 24-year-old striker has netted 26 goals and provided five assists in 30 appearances across all competitions this season, showcasing his attacking prowess and earning widespread admiration.

With the summer transfer window on the horizon, Chelsea is expected to prioritize the acquisition of a top-class striker to address their long-standing goal-scoring problems, and Osimhen has quickly emerged as a leading candidate.